The Alumni Student Support & Engagement Team (ASSET) is a group of alumni that are here to support students. With a diverse offering of skills, talents, and experiences, ASSET volunteers also know the challenges and stresses of being a student. ASSET volunteers offer support for students at events and various activities on North Campus, Augustana Campus, and online.

Interested in applying to ASSET? Applications open May 1st and close June 30th. More online here.

Kim Balay (88’ BEd) has volunteered with the ASSET program at the North Campus and Augustana locations since early 2020. With her degree from North Campus, Kim now lives in Camrose and loves being a part of both U of A communities. Kim volunteers quite a bit both with the University and outside of it, typically spending around 20 hours a month. Now retired, she enjoys connecting with others through volunteer work while having more freedom for when and what causes she can support. Outside of ASSET, Kim is currently volunteering to tutor students from families with limited resources and assisting with animal rehab through Wild North. 

Kim was originally drawn to the ASSET program for a few reasons but was ultimately looking for a cause that she could support with her skill set. She also values being close with and giving back to the U of A, a place that has been such a large part of her history.  When she is on campus, she enjoys working with students and being able to share her experiences and advice with them. It also allows her to see where current students are now and connect with what is going on in their lives, and on campus. 

While ASSET supports a wide range of events on both campuses, one of Kim’s favorite activities is the Augustana Soup Suppers. An event that draws the community together with food; “They’ve been such a huge hit with students and community members. It’s such a mental health break for students and something to look forward to. There is always a huge crowd and people are so happy to be there”.  Another event of note was the Living Library that took place on North Campus this February. In addition to being able to support the community attending, Kim was also able to attend the sessions and learn. “It was a really memorable and satisfying experience”.  

Kim strongly recommends getting involved with ASSET. She’s had the opportunity to meet other volunteers from all stages of life - from newer grads looking to connect with the University and learn new skills to other retirees coming back to campus. “It’s really personally satisfying to be able to donate time and a bit of yourself to something important”.